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Kraków

Plan Your Perfect Kraków Holiday with Thorne Travel

Kraków, one of Europe’s most enchanting cities, is a beautiful blend of medieval charm, cultural richness, and modern energy. Once the royal capital of Poland, this vibrant city is packed with history, from its well-preserved Old Town and majestic Wawel Castle to poignant reminders of the past like Schindler’s Factory and the nearby Auschwitz Memorial.

Whether you’re wandering cobbled streets, dining in candlelit cellars, or enjoying riverside strolls by the Vistula, Kraków is a city that effortlessly captures the heart. Add in its buzzing cafés, local markets, and unforgettable Christmas atmosphere in winter—and you’ve got a destination for every season.

Travel Guide

Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN)

Average temp:Winter: 0°C / 32°F | Summer: 25°C / 77°F

Average flight time from UK: Approximately 2.5 Hours

Time Difference: +1 Hour

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Accommodation

Luxury:
• Hotel Stary – Elegant 5-star hotel with rooftop views of the Main Market Square
• Bonerowski Palace – Lavish rooms in a restored historic palace
• Sheraton Grand Krakow – Modern luxury near Wawel Castle and the Vistula River

Boutique:
• Hotel Grodek – Tucked-away gem with cosy interiors and a garden terrace
• PURO Kraków Kazimierz – Stylish and modern with a creative flair in the heart of the Jewish Quarter
• Hotel Copernicus – Historic boutique hotel in a Renaissance building on the Royal Route

Affordable & Mid-Range:
• Budget hotels, guesthouses, and apartments – Plentiful and affordable throughout the city
• Aparthotels – A great choice for families or longer stays, offering comfort and convenience

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Landmarks

  • Wawel Castle & Cathedral – A majestic complex perched above the city, steeped in royal history.

  • Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) – Europe’s largest medieval square, lined with historic buildings, cafés, and the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica.

  • Kazimierz District – A creative, cultural quarter rich in Jewish heritage, trendy bars, and vintage vibes.

  • Oskar Schindler’s Factory – A powerful museum exploring Kraków’s WWII experience.

  • Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum – A profound and important day trip experience, located just outside the city.

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Cuisine
  • Kraków offers a rich and hearty food scene, filled with traditional dishes and comforting flavours.

  • Try pierogi (Polish dumplings) filled with everything from cheese and potato to seasonal fruits

  • Enjoy warm bowls of bigos (hunter’s stew) or żurek, a sour rye soup served with sausage and egg

  • Sample oscypek, a smoked cheese from the Tatra Mountains, often grilled and topped with cranberry

  • Local cafés serve up rich hot chocolate, fresh pastries, and artisan coffee

  • For a toast, try a glass of regional liqueur or Polish craft beer
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Weather & Climate
  • Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant, with blooming parks and temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C

  • Summer (June–August): Warm and lively, averaging 20°C to 26°C – ideal for sightseeing and festivals

  • Autumn (September–November): Crisp and colourful, with temps between 10°C and 18°C

  • Winter (December–February): Cold and atmospheric, averaging -2°C to 3°C – perfect for Christmas markets and snowy photos

  • Best Time to Visit: May–September for sunshine and open-air events, or December for festive winter charm
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Practical Information
  • Currency: Polish Zloty (PLN)

  • Language: Polish (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

  • Transport: Efficient tram and bus system; walking-friendly Old Town; taxis and ride-hailing apps available

  • Tipping: Appreciated but not obligatory – 10% at restaurants is customary

  • Safety: very safe

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